Can Men and Women Use Silk Pillowcases?

Answered by Mawlana Ilyas Patel

Question

Would it be permissible to use or sell mulberry silk pillowcases if they are made from naturally deceased silkworms, meaning they are already dead and not killed?

Answer

In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate.

It is permitted for men and women to use silk pillowcases and upholstery, rugs, etc., made from silk according to Imam Abu Hanifa, whether they died naturally or were killed. However, men simply cannot wear silk, except in certain cases like embroidery or horizontal weaving. [Nahlawi, al-Durar al-Mubaha]

The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said,

“Wearing silk and gold has been forbidden for the men of my community but is lawful for its women.” [Tirmidhi]

I would like you to go through the valuable answers and links below. Insha’Allah, you will receive guidance and direction.

Related: Silk Archives

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I pray this helps with your question.
Wassalam,
[Mawlana] Ilyas Patel
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Mawlana Ilyas Patel has received a traditional education in various countries. He started his schooling in the UK and completed his hifz of the Quran in India. After that, he joined an Islamic seminary in the UK, where he studied secular and Aalimiyya sciences. Later, he traveled to Karachi, Pakistan, and other Middle Eastern countries to further his education. Mawlana has served as an Imam in the Republic of Ireland for several years and taught the Quran and other Islamic sciences to both children and adults. He also worked as a teacher and librarian at a local Islamic seminary in the UK for 12 years. Presently, he lives in the UK with his wife and is interested in books and gardening.